Black Hawk County Public Health

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

5/29/2025

Contact: Black Hawk County Public Health
Phone: 319-291-2413
publichealth@blackhawkcounty.iowa.gov

‍Local Public Health Agencies Urge Community to Get Vaccinated During Nationwide Measles Resurgence
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‍Local public health officials are urging residents to take action as measles continues to spread across the United States at an unusually high rate. In 2025, more than 1,000 cases have been confirmed nationwide, including a case in central Iowa. If you or your child are not up to date on your vaccinations, now is the time to get protected.

Measles spreads easily—an infected person can pass it to others before they even know they're sick. The virus can stay in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a room. If you're unvaccinated, there’s a 90% chance you’ll get infected. Measles can cause serious health problems, like lung infections (pneumonia), brain damage, and pregnancy complications. In the U.S., about one in five unvaccinated people with measles need hospitalization, and one to three out of every 1,000 infected children die from complications. Getting vaccinated is the best way to stay safe.

To prevent measles, children should receive their first dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine at age one, followed by a second dose as soon as one month later. Adults are considered up to date if they:

• Were vaccinated after 1989 and have two doses of MMR or MMRV
• Were born before 1957 (Since measles was widespread then, most people were naturally exposed and are assumed immune.)

Individuals vaccinated between 1957-1989, especially healthcare workers, college students, and those planning to travel internationally, should check with their medical provider to see if an additional dose is needed. During this time frame, some people may have only received one dose or were vaccinated with a less effective version of the vaccine.

People who are unsure about their vaccination status are encouraged to check with their medical provider. If they do not have a medical provider, they can contact their local public health department.

‍Where to Get Vaccinated
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‍Residents can schedule their MMR vaccine at their:

• Primary care provider
• Local pharmacy. Call ahead for current availability‍
• Local public health agency

By getting vaccinated, you protect yourself, your family, and your community from measles outbreaks.

For more information, contact your medical provider or your local public health department.

• Linn County Public Health: (319) 892-6000
• Black Hawk County Public Health: (319) 291-2413
• Johnson County Public Health: (319) 356-6040

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Black Hawk County Public Health exists to ensure that people in our community have equitable opportunities and resources to lead healthier, more fulfilling, and longer lives. Established in 1969, the health department's mission is to protect people in our community from health hazards, promote healthy behaviors, and prevent disease. Black Hawk County Public Health was accredited by the National Public Health Accreditation Board in 2022. For more information about health department services visit the Black Hawk County Public Health website.